If You Want to Land Clients You Need More Than a Portfolio
Photographers, you know, you really do know that photography is more than just your portfolio — You need MORE THAN that to land clients.
Maybe you don’t, that is why I’m going to share this with you. Having 300 nice pictures in your collection isn’t sufficient to get potential clients interested and make them become your clients.
You need more than that. No, this shouldn’t scare you, because it’s easy to do. I’ll get into it so I don’t waste your time.
- Own a Website. Showcase your photos on a well-designed website, and make sure it is easy to navigate and includes your contact information. Prospects shouldn’t struggle to reach you. Highlight your skills, experience, and passion for photography.
You may be asking — — Do I need a website? Well, it depends on your goals and target audience. If you know your target audience is going to demand your website, you must own one. Regardless, owning a website makes you look more of a pro.
2. Use social media. This is to your merit. There are lots of free platforms available. Select the one that works for you and your brand. It could be VERO or Instagram.
Just so you know, I’ve shared a free resource (ebook) on The Photographer and Obscurity. If you want this free e-book, join my Telegram channel: https://t.me/artshire1. It’s pinned.
3. Network in person and digitally. You didn’t think photography was that easy. It’s not only about clicking the shutter button of some brand. If you’re running a business, you’ve got to do what business people do.
Attend workshops, pay for them, and join free spaces hosted by some of the amazing photography educators on X; @akorede_maylas, @TheMayorOtu, @Kingcreatorr and many more.
Join photo walks. A month ago @TheLexash led a photo walk in Lagos and smart photographers joined. I’m not in Nigeria, I’m Ghanaian and I remember clearly @Obeimages inviting me for a photo walk in the busy streets of Accra. I had a great time and made a few friends.
Attend exhibitions. There you get to meet with other creators, art lovers, and potential patrons. Talk with them. Say hi.
4. Collaborate with Other Professionals. These could be other photographers, make-up artists, models, or fashion designers. This is a win-win scenario where you’re exchanging service for service. A beautiful barter. This will not only expand your network but also expose your work to a broader audience.
5. Ask for Referrals. If you don’t ask you don’t get. You knock for a door to be opened to you. You ask for a thing to be given. A referral is simply a recommendation from one person to another, and this is a powerful way to acquire new customers. Encourage satisfied clients to refer your services to others. Word of mouth is a powerful tool in the photography industry.
6. Client Testimonials. Again, If you don’t ask you don’t get. Request feedback and testimonials from satisfied clients. Displaying positive reviews on your website can build trust with potential clients. Share these positive reviews on your social media. Pin them if you must. This strategy works magic. Prospects want to see a thing that is already working before they commit their monies to it.
7. Stay Active and Consistent. It’s the creator economy. A lack of consistent work (quantity and quality) will get you overshadowed. Regularly update your portfolio and social media profiles with new, high-quality content. Consistency helps you stay top-of-mind with potential clients.
8. Educate Your Audience. I said this to a photographer one time and he didn’t take it, “start a blog post which brings value to your potential clients and clients.” It could be a podcast.
I consistently write because it educates you (the readers) and I love that I do it. Share your knowledge about photography through blog posts, tutorials, or videos. This not only positions you as an expert but also attracts people interested in learning more about photography.
Wedding photographer, Mike Jeffery does this. Check his website out to know what I mean — https://mikejeffreyphotography.com/blog/
Note: patience and persistence are key. Building a client base takes time, but by consistently implementing these strategies, you increase your chances of attracting clients and growing your photography business.
Remember, I’ve shared a free e-book for photographers on the subject of obscurity in the Telegram channel — https://t.me/artshire1
Thank you for reading.
